The 6-foot-2, 280-pound Sanford spent the past three seasons with Cleveland but was waived on Aug. 31 when the club made final roster cuts. He was claimed by Oakland and in appeared in five games, making one start, before he was waived by the Raiders on Dec. 7.

The Browns (4-11) head into their season finale against Pittsburgh thin on their defensive front with Phil Taylor slowed by a concussion and John Hughes nursing a sprained knee.

Cleveland had an open roster spot after wide receiver Davone Bess was placed on the reserve/non-football illness list for personal reasons.

The Browns also signed rookie wide receiver Conner Vernon to the practice squad. He spent training camp with the Raiders. Also, running back Jamaine Cook, released from the practice squad on Wednesday, was re-signed.